ECSTASY and Riding Your Horse with Barbara Carrellas

ECSTASY and Riding Your Horse with Barbara Carrellas [TESSA] In this episode of the Open Nesters podcast, I welcome back Barbara Carrellas, a vital voice in the conversation surrounding sex, aging, and our evolving desires. Five years since her first appearance on the show, Barbara shares her insights on not merely accepting aging but embracing it with an open heart and mind, becoming what she terms “open nesters.” We explore how our relationships—be they with our children, parents, or romantic partners—can transcend traditional definitions, opening us up to new possibilities and experiences. ECSTASY and Riding Your Horse Barbara reflects on the intersection of sexuality and aging, leaning into her expertise in Urban Tantra, a practice that integrates sexuality with a broader understanding of intimacy and connection. She emphasizes the importance of transition, inviting listeners to consider the shifts our bodies undergo as we age and the joy that can still be found amid these changes. Through her teachings, she encourages radical acceptance, asking us to look past perceived limitations and embrace the opportunities that come with aging, whether that’s in our professional lives or our personal relationships. 2:16 Aging and Sexuality 6:03 Radical Acceptance and Adaptation 10:43 Embracing Childhood Dreams 12:52 Adapting to Change 18:04 The Power of Connection 24:17 Navigating Ecstasy and Difficulty 33:01 Finding New Possibilities A significant part of our discussion centers on Barbara’s new book, “The Book of Ecstasy,” where she expands upon themes from her previous work, “Ecstasy Is Necessary.” This new installment delves into how pleasure is experienced differently throughout life and how these changes can open doors to new sources of joy and ecstasy. It’s not only about maintaining a connection to our past desires but also about finding new ways to experience pleasure—what Barbara refers to as the “learning radical acceptance.” During our conversation, Barbara shares poignant personal stories, like her unexpected journey into horseback riding during the pandemic, which reminded her of the importance of pursuing childhood dreams. This narrative serves as a reminder that the things we once set aside can re-emerge in our lives in meaningful ways, fostering a sense of joy and excitement despite the physical challenges we may encounter. We touch on how the concept of ecstasy is not solely linked to pleasure but is also about being open to the paradoxes in life—the joy interwoven with grief, the light with the dark. Through Tantra, Barbara illustrates that ecstatic experiences can arise even from sorrow and loss, redefining our relationship with our emotions and experiences. We acknowledge how vital community support is, particularly in instances of health challenges, and how social media can provide a platform for shared experiences and encouragement. Finally, we discuss the nuances of ‘ecstasy drop’—the emotional downturn that can follow intense ecstatic experiences—and how to navigate this often-overlooked aspect of our emotional journeys. Barbara’s insights help illuminate paths for listeners who may feel overwhelmed by the highs and lows of life, encouraging them to seek support and connection. Through this enlightening dialogue, Barbara Carrellas provides listeners with ample permission to explore new aspects of intimacy, pleasure, and joy as they navigate the stages of their lives. She encourages us all to keep our hearts open and to trust that new and fulfilling paths await, supported by community and understanding. About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author, and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature. If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. And visit her page here on the Open Nesters Website. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure Freedom of Expression Exploration and Fun Body Movement New circles of friends Deep love relationships